Once Upon A Maritimehttps://onceuponamaritime.com
Lifestyle Blog that Focuses on Food, Beauty, Fashion, DIY, Issues, Travel and moreWed, 23 Aug 2017 17:05:43 +0000en-UShourly1https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/oum-media/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/cropped-oum-logo-32x32.jpgOnce Upon A Maritimehttps://onceuponamaritime.com
32325 Must-Haves When Bring Baby Homehttps://onceuponamaritime.com/2017/08/5-must-haves-when-bring-baby-home/
https://onceuponamaritime.com/2017/08/5-must-haves-when-bring-baby-home/#commentsWed, 23 Aug 2017 17:05:43 +0000https://onceuponamaritime.com/?p=3602Bringing your newborn baby back for the first time ever can be quite intimidating. If you’re a new parent, you may not know where to start. There are a million things that you need to remember and it can all bit a little over the top. Still, you needn’t worry. It’s all about ensuring that…

Bringing your newborn baby back for the first time ever can be quite intimidating. If you’re a new parent, you may not know where to start. There are a million things that you need to remember and it can all bit a little over the top. Still, you needn’t worry. It’s all about ensuring that you have just what you need when you bring your baby home for the very first time.

So, what should you make sure that you have? Well, there are a few essentials that you will not get by without. Here are just five things that you absolutely need before you bring your baby back. Make sure that you have them all ahead of time!

Diaper bag

Like it or not, you will be changing a whole load of diapers when you first have a baby. You need to make this entire experience as easy as possible when you start out. The best way to do so is make sure that you have a diaper bag. You can get these things from most stores and so you shouldn’t find it hard at all.

Bottles

Whether you’re feeding your child formula or choosing to breastfeed, you will need to make sure that you get some bottles. The more you have, the easier this whole thing will be. You may also want to get a cleaning system for the bottles. Often enough, you will find that you can get a compact system that does all of the hard work for you. That’s just one less thing you need to think about.

Breast pump

If you are breastfeeding, having a breast pump is 100% essential. You need to make sure that you have a pump that suits you. It may well be worth checking out a load of different models before you choose the one that is right for you. After all, you will be using this thing a whole load!

Baby clothes

Babies grow faster than you can imagine. For that reason, it’s well worth having as many different garments as possible. You should make sure that you have a few different sizes. (When you have a baby, you won’t have a whole load of time to go shopping for new clothes!) That way, you will be well-prepared as your baby grows.

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Cot

Finally, the last thing you need to ensure that you have is a cot! You will first need to decide whether the cot goes in your bedroom or in a nursery. Knowing where you’re putting the cot should make all the difference. Once you know that, you should have no issues!

]]>https://onceuponamaritime.com/2017/08/5-must-haves-when-bring-baby-home/feed/85 Tips on Stopping Breastfeeding Weaninghttps://onceuponamaritime.com/2017/08/5-tips-on-stopping-breastfeeding-weaning/
https://onceuponamaritime.com/2017/08/5-tips-on-stopping-breastfeeding-weaning/#commentsMon, 21 Aug 2017 16:22:27 +0000https://onceuponamaritime.com/?p=3600While breastfeeding is a popular choice for most new mothers, there comes a time when you will need to wean your baby. Many women find the idea of this task particularly hard. After all, the last thing you want to do is disrupt the pattern you’ve gotten into right now. So, what should you do?…

While breastfeeding is a popular choice for most new mothers, there comes a time when you will need to wean your baby. Many women find the idea of this task particularly hard. After all, the last thing you want to do is disrupt the pattern you’ve gotten into right now. So, what should you do?

Well, it’s all about taking things at your own (and your baby’s pace) and ensuring that everything happens as it should. You don’t want this to come as a major shock to your child or, indeed, you. Here are just five small tips that should help you along the way.

Take things slowly

The first, and perhaps most important, thing that you need to remember is to take things slowly. You don’t want to overdo it and end up upsetting your little one. Most babies will struggle with this process, and so you need to make sure that you go at their pace. You should do this one step at a time. That means that you don’t want to stop all at once. Instead, you should just breastfeed less and less until you stop completely.

Change your feeding pattern

So that your baby gets used to this change, you should change your feeding pattern. If, for example, you breastfeed around five times per day, you will want to cut this down. The first week, you could switch to feeding four times a day and using formula once. The week after, you could feed three times a day and use formula twice each day… and so on.

Get used to formula

For many mothers, this will be the first time that they have to deal with formula. It’s worth getting your head around this early on. Some experts actually suggest starting with a mixture of breast milk and formula. Combining these two components will mean that your baby gets used to the new feeding style quickly and easily.

Get some help from your partner

Before now, you will have had to take care of the feeding all by yourself. When you stop breastfeeding, though, it means that your partner will be able to take part as well. It’s best to include them early on this process. You can ask them to take responsibility for one or two feeds per day. This will mean that you’re less stressed and that your partner bonds with your child!

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See a health professional

Finally, if you find that you’re having ongoing issues with weaning, it may be worth seeing a health professional. Some babies have extra trouble with this transition so an expert may be able to help you along the way. Remember, the more advice you can get, the easier things will be in the long run.

]]>https://onceuponamaritime.com/2017/08/5-tips-on-stopping-breastfeeding-weaning/feed/57 Ways To Get More Sleep Each Nighthttps://onceuponamaritime.com/2017/08/7-ways-to-get-more-sleep-each-night/
https://onceuponamaritime.com/2017/08/7-ways-to-get-more-sleep-each-night/#respondFri, 18 Aug 2017 17:26:33 +0000https://onceuponamaritime.com/?p=2788Do you get enough sleep at night? Unless you get the rest that you need, you could find that you end up having both mental and physical problems. Allowing your body to just switch off is essential to your well-being. If you’re struggling to sleep when you need it the most, here’s what you have…

Do you get enough sleep at night? Unless you get the rest that you need, you could find that you end up having both mental and physical problems. Allowing your body to just switch off is essential to your well-being. If you’re struggling to sleep when you need it the most, here’s what you have to do:

Create a bedtime routine

First of all, you have to get into the routine of sleeping at a certain time. This step is absolutely essential. If you go to bed at different times each night, your body will have no idea when to ‘shut down’ so to speak. If you always hit the hay at around 10pm, your body will get used to this routine and wind down at that time naturally.

Lay off the caffeine

Caffeine is your worst enemy if you’re having trouble sleeping. Sure, you may love coffee as much as the next person, but you need to know when to cut back. Avoid drinking coffee after around 2pm so that the caffeine is out of your system when you go to bed.

Create a relaxing room

Is your room relaxing? Your bedroom should be a calm sanctuary away from the worries of the world. Make sure that it is as comfortable as possible. You might want to include things like cozy cushions, serene pictures, and plants. These little things could make all the difference.

Switch off your gadgets

We’re all guilty of using our phones and tablets in bed, but it has to stop. The backlight in these gadgets will keep you up all night if you’re not careful. You need your body to adjust to the night. Keeping it awake artificially is dangerous. Instead, you should turn these gadgets off way before you head to bed.

Manage your stress levels

If you’re feeling worried about things in your day to day life, this could affect your stress levels in a serious way. Spoiler: Stress can cause you to have trouble sleeping. Try writing down the things that make you anxious so that you get them of your chest. You may also wish to talk to someone about them.

Workout in the day

Do you exercise in the day? If the answer is no, you need to sort it out as soon as possible. Hitting the gym after work might seem like a massive effort but it could be just what you need to help you sleep! If you get into the habit of doing at least 20 minutes worth of exercise a day, you will be so glad you did.

Avoid napping at all costs

While it may be tempting to have a quick nap when you’re sleepy in the day, avoid the urge! Napping throughout the daytime will only make it harder to sleep at night. It’s much better to try to stay awake until it’s a normal and healthy time to sleep.

]]>https://onceuponamaritime.com/2017/08/7-ways-to-get-more-sleep-each-night/feed/010 Hilarious Pregnancy Cravingshttps://onceuponamaritime.com/2017/08/10-hilarious-pregnancy-cravings/
https://onceuponamaritime.com/2017/08/10-hilarious-pregnancy-cravings/#commentsThu, 17 Aug 2017 14:00:28 +0000https://onceuponamaritime.com/?p=3593Bearing a child is a magical experience. Before you’ve been pregnant, you can never truly understand how very exciting this time is. However, that’s not to say that it doesn’t come with its fair share of downfalls. For one thing, your body starts to do some weird and wonderful things. Oh, and let’s not forget…

]]>Bearing a child is a magical experience. Before you’ve been pregnant, you can never truly understand how very exciting this time is. However, that’s not to say that it doesn’t come with its fair share of downfalls. For one thing, your body starts to do some weird and wonderful things. Oh, and let’s not forget about the awful cravings. Here are just ten that will make you giggle.

1. Donuts with fried eggs

Fried eggs are delicious on most things, but would you really put one on top of a donut? It may sound a little odd (it is odd!), but some women experience this one when they are pregnant. Yikes.

2. Chip sandwiches

It’s no great mystery that women eat chips when they are carrying a child. One of the things that you crave is grease, which makes sense. Still, most of us would not put this on a sandwich!

3. Toothpaste

Let’s get one thing clear… Toothpaste is for brushing your teeth with. Nothing more. Nothing less. You certainly should not be eating this stuff.

4. Beans on toast

The Brits love this odd meal, and yet most of us would find it a bit gross. When you’re pregnant, though, anything goes. There’s nothing wrong with having some tasty beans on toast now and then.

5. Cake mix

You’re meant to cook the cake mix, not eat it as it is. Many pregnant women report that they just can’t help themselves when it comes to lapping up the cake mix from the bowl. Weird.

6. Sour cream on toast

Sometimes, all you really want in your life is some sour cream. Can you imagine slathering this stuff on some toast? I bet you can’t! Well, that’s what a whole load of pregnant ladies do.

]]>https://onceuponamaritime.com/2017/08/10-hilarious-pregnancy-cravings/feed/9Things You should do to Prepare Your Child for Kindergartenhttps://onceuponamaritime.com/2017/08/things-you-should-do-to-prepare-your-child-for-kindergarten/
https://onceuponamaritime.com/2017/08/things-you-should-do-to-prepare-your-child-for-kindergarten/#respondTue, 15 Aug 2017 15:53:20 +0000https://onceuponamaritime.com/?p=2774Did you know, there are simple things you can do each day to help your child learn? These often seemingly insignificant activities can help ensure your little one is prepared for kindergarten. While your child is going to have teachers to guide their learning experience, you are still the parent. As a result, you need…

]]>Did you know, there are simple things you can do each day to help your child learn? These often seemingly insignificant activities can help ensure your little one is prepared for kindergarten.

While your child is going to have teachers to guide their learning experience, you are still the parent. As a result, you need to take the reins now to ensure your child gets all they can out of kindergarten. Some tips to help you now are found here.

Practice Writing their Name

By the time your child gets to kindergarten, they should know how to write their name. Taking a few minutes each day and practicing this with them is a great way to meet this goal. Keep in mind, the writing doesn’t have to be absolutely perfect, but it needs to be legible.

Talk about Letters

There are several ways you can play with the alphabet and letters. By the time your child enters kindergarten, they should be able to identify most (if not all) of the upper and lowercase letters. While they will learn these during kindergarten, giving your child a head start is always a good idea.

Sight Word Practice

Kindergarten is when you child learns to read. If you have taught them a few sight words ahead of time, it will ensure they are prepared for this huge step. A great way to help teach these words is with flashcards and having your child read them over and over again.

Play with Numbers

The summer months are the perfect time to do a bit of school preparation. You can get card games, have street sign games and even play with numbers in the pool. Consider having your child count their steps during a walk, or separate Legos into equal piles for you both to play. This teaches them numbers and ensures they are having fun.

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Kindergarten is a fun time for kids. It is their first experience with classroom learning, in most cases. Make sure they are ready by using the tips and tools here. You will find your child is much more successful when you play an active role in their education.

]]>https://onceuponamaritime.com/2017/08/things-you-should-do-to-prepare-your-child-for-kindergarten/feed/0Taking Your Family On A Train Trip? Here’s What You Need To Know!https://onceuponamaritime.com/2017/08/taking-your-family-on-a-train-trip-heres-what-you-need-to-know/
https://onceuponamaritime.com/2017/08/taking-your-family-on-a-train-trip-heres-what-you-need-to-know/#respondTue, 01 Aug 2017 19:05:13 +0000https://onceuponamaritime.com/?p=2597Are you heading off on a tour with your nearest and dearest? Traveling with your family can be a real bonding experience. However, if you’re not careful, it can also be something of a nightmare. Kids need a whole load of attention at the best of times. What that means is that things can quickly…

]]>Are you heading off on a tour with your nearest and dearest? Traveling with your family can be a real bonding experience. However, if you’re not careful, it can also be something of a nightmare.

Kids need a whole load of attention at the best of times. What that means is that things can quickly go downhill unless you plan ahead. Before you and your family board a train, here are some things that you absolutely must remember!

Step 1: Make an itinerary

Okay, the very last thing you need to happen is for you to miss your train. If you’re going to go inter-railing or even just on a short journey, an itinerary is essential. Make a minute-by-minute timetable so that you know where you should be at all times. Remember, you have to plan for delays. Give yourself a little breathing room. Make sure that you have a spare ten minutes here and there so that you can afford to be late. You never know what may happen.

Step 2: Take a survival kit

Traveling with kids means that you really do need to be prepared for every situation. You need to make sure that you have a survival kit with you when you head off. Include the basics such as band aids, hand sanitiser, and bandages. You should also have little things like baby wipes and tissue so that you can clean up any messes your kids happen to make.

Step 3: Snacks are essential

Spoiler: Buying food on board a train is going to be extremely expensive! That shouldn’t really come as a massive surprise. If you want to avoid your little ones getting hungry and, ultimately, you having to fork out loads of cash for snacks, there’s just one thing you can do. Making snacks before you head off will make all the difference. Here’s a hint: You will always need more than you think so pack extra.

Step 4: Make a game of it

Let’s not beat around the bush here. The truth of the matter is that train journeys can be nothing short of boring. Your kids will feel this more than anyone else. After all, children need to be entertained all of the time to be happy. So, you should make a game of the ride. Have a competition to see who can spot things first. For example, you might want to say that the first child to see a farm house gets a present. These little games will make the trip go faster!

Step 5: Take some entertainment

Finally, here’s the step that you just cannot miss out. Your kids will need some form of entertainment on the train. Whether they have a tablet or a book to read, ensure that they have a little something with them. The more choice they have, the better.

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While traveling with kids can often be a hassle, it’s worth it to have a memorable family vacation. With any luck, my tips here will help you along the way.

]]>https://onceuponamaritime.com/2017/08/taking-your-family-on-a-train-trip-heres-what-you-need-to-know/feed/0Best Math Apps for Kidshttps://onceuponamaritime.com/2017/07/best-math-apps-for-kids/
https://onceuponamaritime.com/2017/07/best-math-apps-for-kids/#commentsThu, 27 Jul 2017 19:55:03 +0000https://onceuponamaritime.com/?p=2825There is no question that some kids struggle learning math. However, there are more than a few math apps available that make it easier for kids and parents to grasp these all important concepts. Take some time to get to know some of the top apps available. Doing so can help you see that yes,…

]]>There is no question that some kids struggle learning math. However, there are more than a few math apps available that make it easier for kids and parents to grasp these all important concepts. Take some time to get to know some of the top apps available. Doing so can help you see that yes, math can be fun.

Motion Math: Pizza!

With this app, kids get to create the pizzeria of their dreams. They will also learn mental math and economics as they purchase ingredients, set prices, design the pizzas and serve the customers in this fun and educational simulation game.

Prodigy Math Game

This is a free app that is aligned with common core math concepts for grades one to eight. This is an adaptive math video game that offers kids an entire virtual world where they can play and learn with their friends at a pace they set. This app takes the game-based learning a step further than other apps and provides the teachers with a number of other useful features. These features include real-time reports, assessment tools and a diagnostic test.

Sumdog

While students can have a great time with this app, teachers can still retain full control of the work that is done. At the easiest level, kids can choose the subject they work on and then teachers can see their progress. As time passes, they will progress through new skills and master each prior to moving on.

Reflex Student

This is a research based game app that helps students in grades two to eight. It helps them develop an instant and effortless recall of various math facts in all four of the operations. With Reflex, students can answer billions of math facts, which increases their confidence, skill and various test scores.

Number Rack from The Math Learning Center

This app facilitates the natural development of a child’s number sense. The colored, movable beads encourage kids to think in groups of five and ten, which helps them discover and explore a number of subtraction and addition strategies.

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If you are looking for an effective and educational math app for your child, these represent a great place to start.

]]>https://onceuponamaritime.com/2017/07/best-math-apps-for-kids/feed/1Tips for Surviving A Long Flight With A Babyhttps://onceuponamaritime.com/2017/07/tips-for-surviving-a-long-flight-with-a-baby/
https://onceuponamaritime.com/2017/07/tips-for-surviving-a-long-flight-with-a-baby/#commentsWed, 26 Jul 2017 01:25:30 +0000https://onceuponamaritime.com/?p=3550Jetting off on your first family vacation with your newborn is super exciting. It’s a moment that you will always remember. However, the flight may well be something that you want to forget. Babies notoriously struggle on flights as it’s a totally new and alien experience to them. If you want to make it as…

]]>Jetting off on your first family vacation with your newborn is super exciting. It’s a moment that you will always remember. However, the flight may well be something that you want to forget. Babies notoriously struggle on flights as it’s a totally new and alien experience to them. If you want to make it as pain-free as possible, you need to make sure that you plan ahead. Here are some of the things that you should keep in mind:

Make sure you have a stopover

If you’re flying long-haul, having a stopover will be your best friend. You will be so very thankful of your break from the flight, even if it’s just for an hour or so. It will give you a chance to get up, walk around, and have a little space.

Stock up on baby food

While, of course, some airlines do offer baby food as standard, you can’t rely on it by any means. You will need to make sure that you stock up on baby food and formula ahead of time. Make sure that you have more than you need for the duration of the flight just in case.

Keeping your baby distracted is an absolute must in a lot of ways. One of the quickest and easiest ways to do so is to take a tablet in your bag. Before you head off, you will find that there are loads of free apps for babies you can download in minutes.

Choose the right seats

You need to choose the right seats for your flight. The more space and leg room you have, the better. Having a baby with you for the whole journey will be something of a stress. If you can have a little more space, it will make things more comfortable for both of you.

Avoid overpacking

There will be a temptation here to overpack somewhat. Don’t do it. If you have a massive bag to carry around with you as well as your newborn, you will only make things harder than they need to be. Instead, keep things as minimal as possible. You won’t regret it.

Feed your baby during takeoff

Takeoff will be extremely hard for your baby because the air pressure in the cabin changes dramatically and quickly. You should time it so that you feed your child during this period. That way, they will be content while this is happening.

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Mentally prepare yourself

Make no mistakes, traveling with a baby is seriously tricky. You will find this experience mentally and physically tiring in many ways. So, you will need to mentally prepare yourself before you go away. That way, you should be ready to take on any challenge!

]]>https://onceuponamaritime.com/2017/07/tips-for-surviving-a-long-flight-with-a-baby/feed/10How to Teach the Alphabet to Preschoolershttps://onceuponamaritime.com/2017/07/how-to-teach-the-alphabet-to-preschoolers/
https://onceuponamaritime.com/2017/07/how-to-teach-the-alphabet-to-preschoolers/#commentsMon, 24 Jul 2017 17:28:19 +0000https://onceuponamaritime.com/?p=2626Learning the alphabet is the foundation of writing and reading. By the time a child reaches the age of two, they typically begin showing interest in letters. While some kids can learn rather quickly, others require more time and repetition to successfully learn the letters. Here you can learn some of the most effective ways…

]]>Learning the alphabet is the foundation of writing and reading. By the time a child reaches the age of two, they typically begin showing interest in letters. While some kids can learn rather quickly, others require more time and repetition to successfully learn the letters. Here you can learn some of the most effective ways to teach your little one the alphabet.

Sing Songs

Singing the alphabet song to your child helps to introduce the letters in a fun and memorable way. Begin singing this song when your child is still a baby and as they get older, encourage them to sing along. There are countless CDs out there that feature other kids singing the song, which is often extremely effective.

Read Alphabet Books

Take the time to read all types of alphabet books to kids, even when they are still babies. This repetition will help your child learn the alphabet. When my oldest daughter was born, I was surprised how many alphabet books I was given as presents. We enjoyed reading them all because they were so different from one another. Some to consider, that my daughters and I love include:

Eating the Alphabet

AlphaOops! The Day Z Went First

The Construction Alphabet Book

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom (board book)

Sandpaper Letters

The use of sandpaper letters is a great way to introduce your kid’s to letters. Some to consider using include School Supply Tactile Letters Kit and Didax Sandpaper Tracing Letters. This is a great activity for those who still haven’t started writing because children use their finger to trace the letters. The cards also tell your child when to go up, down and to the side.

The sandpaper letters are used by Montessori schools when children are learning to read. They provide a visual and tactile way to help children learn the alphabet.

Alphabet Puzzles

There are countless alphabet puzzles out there and they are a great way to teach kids their ABCs. A favorite for me and our kids is the alphabet puzzle from Melissa and Doug. It is a very beautifully made wooden puzzle and features pictures my kids love to look at. This is a great way to practice verbal and vocabulary skills, as well.

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Learning the ABCs is an important task for all children. With the tips here, you can make it fun and enjoyable for you and your kids.

]]>https://onceuponamaritime.com/2017/07/how-to-teach-the-alphabet-to-preschoolers/feed/4Natural Tips for Insomniahttps://onceuponamaritime.com/2017/07/natural-tips-for-insomnia/
https://onceuponamaritime.com/2017/07/natural-tips-for-insomnia/#respondSat, 22 Jul 2017 17:20:19 +0000https://onceuponamaritime.com/?p=2803According to the CDC, more than one in every three adults across the U.S. routinely sleep less than six hours each night. That’s pretty bad news, because the benefits of sleep can range all the way from better heart health, reduced stress, and enhanced weight loss, to better memory capacity! Rather than turning to your…

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According to the CDC, more than one in every three adults across the U.S. routinely sleep less than six hours each night. That’s pretty bad news, because the benefits of sleep can range all the way from better heart health, reduced stress, and enhanced weight loss, to better memory capacity!

Rather than turning to your doctor for help with your poor sleeping habits, we’ve put together some tips that could help you to overcome insomnia naturally. Let’s take a look.

1. Have a Routine

It might be tempting, but if you sleep through until noon every weekend, you’re going to disturb your biological clock and cause some pretty significant sleeping problems. Going to bed at the same night, even on the weekend, and other days off should help to establish a natural sleeping and waking pattern that reduces the amount of tossing and turning needed for sleep!

2. Get More Exercise

Research shows that people who were suffering from a sedentary lifestyle, who begin to get more exercise around four times each week can improve their sleep quality from poor to great. Adapting your lifestyle from a former couch potato into a regular exercise fan can allow you to enjoy better sleep, more energy, and fewer symptoms of depression too!

3. Adapt your Diet

If you cut out some of the drinks and food that contain caffeine that you regularly find in your diet, such as chocolate, soft drinks, and tea or coffee, then you should experience better sleep. Additionally, it’s a good idea to make dinner your lightest meal, and finish up a few hours before bedtime if you can. Skip heavy or spicy foods that might lead to indigestion or heartburn!

4. Quit Smoking

Studies have found that smokers are four times more likely to suffer from periods of bad sleep than those who don’t smoke. Researchers from Johns Hopkins University attribute this behavior to the stimulating effect of nicotine, and the nighttime withdrawals that people regularly suffer. Smoking also exacerbates sleep apnea and other disorders like asthma.

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5. Avoid Alcohol

Finally, alcohol can make you feel sleepier to begin with, but it actually disrupts your natural pattern of sleep, and damages the brainwaves that help you to feel more energetic in a morning. Although your alcohol might help you to drift off to begin with, it will metabolize quickly and push you to wake up in the middle of the night feeling restless.